Posted by Courtney E. Howard
MARIETTA, Ga., 7 June 2010. Canada formally accepted the first of 17 Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules aircraft at a ceremony at Canadian Forces Base Trenton. Canada finalized its CC-130J contract with Lockheed Martin in December 2007, with a subsequent agreement from the U.S. Air Force to ensure an early delivery of the first two Canadian aircraft. The balance will be delivered by the end of 2012. The CC-130Js (the Canadian designation) are the "stretched" configuration of the C-130J and are of similar specification to those operated by the U.S. and other worldwide air forces.
"This year is the 50th anniversary of the first CC-130 Hercules aircraft accepted by Canada," says Peter MacKay, the Canadian Minister of National Defence. "I am proud to mark this milestone by welcoming the J-model Hercules into our fleet -- on budget and on schedule -- ensuring the Canadian Forces have the equipment it needs to be a modern, multi-role force able to take on the challenges of the 21st century."
"Lockheed Martin is proud to again support Canada and the Canadian Forces," says Tony Frese, Lockheed Martin C-130J program director. "The C-130J Super Hercules is an operationally proven platform and the ideal aircraft to replace Canada's existing C-130 fleet. The current C-130s have been Canada's indomitable workhorse for decades and this new aircraft will now meet the demanding tactical airlift needs of the Canadian Forces."
The C-130J generates greater operational efficiency than Canada's existing E and H models, by flying further, faster, with more payload and higher reliability. The aircraft's increased performance gives it an enhanced range with a payload capability of over 4,000 nautical miles. Its short-field performance allows the aircraft to engage in direct support missions for frontline forces down to the last tactical mile.
